The annual Tourism Industry presentation was done in Ambergris San Pedro Caye today. Stakeholders from all over the country were present to review the performance of the tourism industry for 2012. In his address, Minister of Tourism Manual Heredia said that the tourism industry in Belize did well considering the economic challenges globally.

MANUEL HEREDIA:Since our last industry presentation we have been on an unprecedented and momentous journey, where despite great economic challenges, our country has truly performed like no other. The Belize Tourism Board reports that the industry has seen an increase of over 10% in overnight tourist arrivals in 2012, compared with 2011. To put this into perspective, the World Tourism and Travel Council indicated last year, that there was only a 2,7% growth in tourism arrivals globally in 2012, compared to last year. This, Ladies and Gentlemen, signifies that Belize performance has been extraordinary, and establishes us as truly a mega-contender in our region's tourism market. There is no doubt in my mind that this is attributed to the efforts of our industry partners, and it is an achievement to celebrate.

The slogan, “Belize, mother nature’s best kept secret” was also retired as of today and a new logo unveiled. The old logo and slogan has been used for the past 26 years but Tourism stakeholders say Belize is no longer a secret. The new logo is “Belize: Discover how to be”.